Sad death of much-loved Donegal Town man - John Hanna of Hanna Hats

12:15 Wednesday 15th of May 2019

There is huge sadness in Donegal Town at the death of popular businessman John Hanna. Best known as the owner of Hanna Hats, John died in the Beacon Hospital, Dublin while fighting illness. His wife Mary and family were at his side.

John was well-known in Donegal Town not just for Hanna Hats but for his great involvement in the local angling community.

He was husband to Mary, a father to Amanda Jane, Eleanor, Bernadette and John Patrick and a much-loved grandfather.

Late John HannaPhoto: Siobhan McGowan

He took great pride in carrying on his father’s Hanna Hats business, taking over in 1974.

From its origins as a small tailoring firm to the now world-famous Hanna Hats, it has remained a family-run business. John in turned handed over the reins to his daughters Amanda Jane and Eleanor who have brought their own passion and drive to carrying on the business in a global marketplace.

John and his daughters remained dedicated to the original practice of bespoke, traditional hats using local tweed and their team of crafters in their Donegal Town factory.
John will be sorely missed by all who knew him; most of all by his family but also by his friends and neighbours and by the local angling community.

Condolences were extended to the Hanna family at Tuesday's meeting of Donegal Municipal District (MD).
Afterwards, Cathaoirleach of the MD Cllr Micheal Naughton told the Donegal Post:

“My thoughts and prayers are with the Hanna family at this sad time. John added much to the town. Great credit to him for putting Donegal Town on the map with Hanna Hats known world wide.”

Cllr Seamus Maguire said:

“My respects to the Hanna family. John was a great pillar of local business, employing 30 people locally. It is a very sad occasion for his family.”

Funeral details

John Hanna (Hanna Hats), Donegal Town. Peacefully, at the Beacon Hospital, Dublin. Deeply regretted by his loving wife Mary (nee Fisher), daughters Amanda Jane, Eleanor and Bernadette and his son John Patrick. Sadly missed by his sons in-law, Fred Simmons and Garvan Ward and extended family, neighbours and friends.

Remains will be reposing at his late residence today Wednesday 15th May from 1pm until 10pm and on Thursday 16th May from 1pm until 10pm. Removal from there on Friday morning to St. Mary's Church, Killymard for 11am funeral Mass, with burial afterwards in Clar Cemetery.

Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu, if so desired, to The Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Research Clinic, Dublin.

House private on the morning of the funeral, please.

May He Rest in Peace

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